Red Bull is navigating ADUO limitations but continues to advocate for adjustments ahead of F1 2027.

This is attributed to the system's sole focus on the internal combustion engine, overlooking other crucial performance aspects present in the current hybrid models, where Mercedes has shown significant strength.

Consequently, discussions are underway regarding modifications for 2027 – FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis acknowledged existing “weaknesses” – an area of keen interest for Red Bull.

“We were caught off guard and then some by the initial assessments from the FIA,” Mekies remarked.

“We presented our perspective. We demonstrated why we believed it wasn’t accurately reflecting the situation. We are currently engaging with them on potential improvements for next year’s methodologies.

Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Racing Team Principal

“That’s our current position. At some point, we like to emphasize at Red Bull Racing the importance of minimizing distractions and focusing on the essence of racing.  So eventually, you concentrate on your own performance and continue to push with your existing resources.

“Ultimately, we would rather be in a scenario where we have a powerful engine without the need for ADUO than one that is underpowered and reliant on claiming the ADUO.”

According to the recent evaluations, Mercedes has received one token for being 2-4% less powerful, while Ferrari, Audi, and Honda have been awarded two tokens for exceeding 4%, whereas Red Bull has not received any tokens.

However, this does not imply that Red Bull has no avenues for enhancement, especially considering this season has witnessed a steady improvement in performance with continuous upgrades on the RB22.

“Although ADUO aims to estimate the peak power of the ICE, there are numerous other performance elements that can be developed and refined,” Mekies noted.

“Particularly in our inaugural year as a power unit producer. Therefore, the team has been making significant strides in enhancing the overall package for the drivers and optimizing operating parameters.

“There is extensive development occurring behind the scenes, even though hardware modifications are not feasible. This is especially true for us in our very first operational year.”

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Racing Team Principal

The latest significant upgrade package from Red Bull was unveiled for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in September, where Max Verstappen secured second place, finishing just a second behind Mercedes’ George Russell.

This achievement marked his fifth podium in six races, and just a week later in Malaysia, the reigning champion clinched his first victory of 2026, having previously secured one podium in the initial five rounds.

“What I take away from the Baku upgrade isn't necessarily what it specifically unlocked,” Mekies explained. “I don’t believe there was anything uniquely outstanding about that upgrade compared to our earlier ones.

“What stands out to me is that this team has once again demonstrated remarkable development throughout the season.

“We began at a disadvantage. However, no one was going to pause for us, and having started from a deficit of over one second to where we are now, I think it’s very much a hallmark of Red Bull Racing to achieve such strong in-season progress.

“At one point, we sensed a possibility of getting stuck at the three-tenths mark compared to the leading cars.

“In the end, the team has been working comprehensively, both on the chassis and power unit sides, to close that final three-tenths gap, which we anticipated would be the most challenging to overcome.

“The Baku upgrade contributed to this, but it is part of a broader effort by everyone – chassis and power unit teams – to maximize performance.”